“Could You Make a Natural Cleaner?” – How My Cleaning Range Was Born
“Could You Make a Natural Cleaner?” – How My Cleaning Range Was Born
It started with one simple question that landed in my inbox:
“Hey, could you make a natural cleaner?”
I get asked to create custom products all the time, but this one stuck with me. I’ve always leaned toward natural living—making things from scratch, keeping ingredients simple and safe—but I hadn’t yet explored cleaning products. Not properly. And honestly? The idea lit a little fire in me.
The Spark Behind the Range
I wanted to create a range that felt like an extension of my existing work—intentional, natural, beautifully scented—but practical too. Products that wouldn’t just smell clean but would actually work. And most importantly, I wanted them to be kind to people, pets, and the planet.
So, I started with a question of my own:
“What do I actually use and need around the house?”
That became my blueprint. I listed out the basics: a good spray cleaner, a streak-free glass spray, something for floors, something for carpets, a deep-clean paste, and toilet cleaners that didn’t rely on bleach or plastic-heavy packaging.
Creating Each Product (One By One)
Here’s how each one came to life:
🧴 Multi-Surface Spray
This was the obvious starting point. I use spray cleaners every day—for benches, tables, cupboard doors, you name it. I wanted something gentle but effective, with essential oils doing the heavy lifting.
I played with combinations until I found the perfect mix of witch hazel, distilled water, and essential oils—preserved safely with a gentle, eco-safe preservative. The citrus blend cuts grease, while the herbal blend gives that clean, fresh scent without overpowering.
✨ Glass Cleaner + Refill Tablets
I was determined to crack a glass cleaner that left zero streaks. Vinegar worked—but the smell? Not ideal. So I balanced it out with a dash of rubbing alcohol, water, and essential oils to freshen things up.
The tablets were a later idea: a low-waste refill option for those who already have a spray bottle. It took some trial and error, but I got the fizz and performance just right. They’re available in citrus, herbal, or unscented for sensitive noses.
🧽 Scrub Paste
Think sinks, grout, shower screens… the areas that need elbow grease. I started with a mix of bicarb soda and castile soap, then added just enough oil to keep it smooth and scoopable (without it going rock hard).
This one went through the most testing—consistency, scent, texture, and results. I even scrubbed my oven with it (and that’s saying something).
🧼 Toilet Fizz Blocks
These were actually fun to make. I wanted something that felt a bit “extra” but also practical. Drop one in, let it fizz, and give a quick brush. They clean, freshen, and smell lovely.
I used citric acid and bicarb soda as the base, with natural oils for scent and antibacterial properties. They’re wrapped in biodegradable film and popped into a jute or kraft bag—no plastic in sight.
🧹 Concentrated Floor Cleaner
This one came from my own frustration with sticky, overly scented floor cleaners. I needed something gentle (especially around pets and barefoot kids) but still able to lift grime.
I created a concentrate that you dilute into warm water. It’s infused with essential oils and made with natural surfactants—powerful enough for tiles, gentle enough for wood or laminate.
🌿 Carpet Freshener
A sprinkle-on powder for rugs and carpets. I used bicarb soda as the base (great for absorbing odours), then blended in essential oils that linger long after vacuuming.
I trialled it with friends who had pets and small kids—they loved the fresh scent and the way it neutralised smells without any synthetic perfumes.
Why I Made It This Way
Every single recipe was tested in my own home first. If it didn’t pass my standards, it didn’t make it to yours. I chose natural glass jars for most packaging to keep everything refillable and recyclable. Solids like fizz blocks and tablets are packed in biodegradable wraps inside natural kraft or jute bags—so everything is as low-waste as possible.
Scent-wise, I kept things simple but effective:
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Citrus Blend – Lemon, eucalyptus, and grapefruit
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Herbal Blend – Rosemary, peppermint, and lavender
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Unscented – For those who want clean without any fragrance
From One Question to a Full Range
What started as a casual question became a whole collection—each item made with care, backed by research, and tested in real homes (mine included).
And honestly? I’m proud of it. Proud that it’s natural, refillable, low-waste, and genuinely works. Cleaning doesn’t have to come in bright plastic bottles with harsh smells. It can feel calm, fresh, and even a little luxurious.
Follow My Journey
I’ll be posting updates on my essential oil studies, product-making process, and craft fairs over on TikTok & Instagram (@BlakesMakes)—follow along for behind-the-scenes insights!
https://www.facebook.com/blakesmakes1308
https://www.tiktok.com/@blakesmakes